Boeing has announced significant orders for its 787 Dreamliner and 777 double-aisle jets from Japan Airlines and Korean Air. The planemaker revealed on Monday that Japan Airlines has secured orders for up to 80 aircraft, including 10 Dreamliners with an option for an additional 10, while Korean Air plans to purchase 20 777-9 models and 20 787-10 planes, also with the option for 10 more 787-10s.
This announcement comes at the start of the Farnborough International Airshow, a key event in the aviation industry. Brad McMullen, Boeing’s head of sales operations, expressed satisfaction with Japan Airlines’ decision to continue its partnership by re-selecting the 787 Dreamliner to modernize its fleet.
The orders mark a response from Boeing following past moves by Airbus to secure contracts with these airlines amid challenges faced by Boeing, particularly during the fallout from the 737 Max incident earlier this year. This situation underscores Boeing’s commitment to maintaining its presence in the market.
In contrast, earlier reports indicated that Japan Airlines had made its first purchase of single-aisle planes from Airbus, acquiring 11 A321neo jets. Additionally, Korean Air had also turned to Airbus for several wide-body jets, raising questions about its long-standing ties with Boeing, particularly as the 777x awaits regulatory clearance.
Stephanie Pope, head of Boeing’s commercial airplanes division, emphasized the company’s ongoing relationship with Korean Air, stating that the 777X and 787 Dreamliner will help the airline achieve its sustainability and growth targets.